At Streamline Drywall Inc., we’ve always believed in the power of perseverance and continuous learning. This belief was only reinforced when we participated in the SFPUC’s Getting Down to Business Program. Designed to support Local Business Enterprises (LBEs) in San Francisco, this program has been a game-changer for us, equipping us with the tools and knowledge needed to compete for and win city-funded contracts.
Empowering Small Businesses Through Structured Learning
The Getting Down to Business Program was an 18-week intensive that ran from November 2020 to March 2021, concluding with a celebration attended by Acting General Manager Michael Carlin and Mayor London Breed. The program offered a comprehensive curriculum covering essential aspects of business operations, from Bid Preparation and Cost Analysis to Contract Performance Management. For small businesses like ours, this program provided practical solutions to common challenges, ensuring that we were better prepared to tackle the competitive landscape of city contracting.
A Testimony of Growth: Streamline Drywall’s Journey
As the owner and Chief Estimator of Streamline Drywall, I, Triston Dion, can personally attest to the transformative impact of this program. My journey in construction spans over two decades, filled with trials and triumphs. I remember the early days of my business, where every dollar counted, and I even found myself sleeping in my Jeep just to keep the lights on. The struggle was real, but so was my determination.
When I joined the Getting Down to Business Program, I was looking for more than just technical knowledge—I was seeking a structure that could help my business not only survive but thrive. The program delivered on that promise. The insights and templates I gained from the program were instrumental in securing a major contract with San Francisco International Airport (SFO), where Streamline Drywall was awarded a project to drywall the connection between Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.
Practical Solutions for Real-World Challenges
What sets the Getting Down to Business Program apart from other initiatives I’ve participated in is its practical approach. Every class provided me with actionable takeaways that I could immediately apply to my business. Whether it was refining my estimating process, improving project management, or understanding the nuances of contracts, the program equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.
Moreover, the program wasn’t just about imparting knowledge—it was about building a community. The support from mentors like Martha Hernandez, CEO of madeBOS, and the camaraderie among fellow participants, many of whom were Minority-owned Business Enterprises (MBEs) and Woman-owned Business Enterprises (WBEs), made the experience invaluable. The program’s intentional focus on supporting MBEs and WBEs ensured that we had the guidance and resources needed to succeed in a competitive industry.
Looking Forward: The Next Steps for Streamline Drywall
As we continue to grow and take on new challenges, the lessons learned from the Getting Down to Business Program will remain a cornerstone of our business strategy. The program’s impact is evident in every project we undertake, from the meticulous planning to the execution that meets and exceeds client expectations.
For any small business considering joining this program, my advice is simple: do it. You’re not alone in your journey. There’s a community of experts and peers ready to support you, and the structure provided by this program is a proven path to success.
Join Us in Building a Better Future
At Streamline Drywall, we’re excited about the future. Our participation in the Getting Down to Business Program has not only strengthened our business but also reaffirmed our commitment to excellence in every project we undertake. We look forward to continuing our work in the San Francisco Bay Area, delivering high-quality results and building lasting relationships with our clients and community.
